Sci-Port Discovery Center

Sci-Port Discovery Center is an expansive space for discovery and inspiration, located on the picturesque waterfront in the heart of Shreveport. Spanning over 8,500 square meters, this center in the USA is one of the region's leading educational and entertainment institutions. Here, science ceases to be dry theory and turns into an exciting adventure for visitors of all ages.

The complex includes the Louisiana Science and Space Center with more than 200 interactive exhibits, the ultra-modern Sawyer Space Dome planetarium, and the state's only IMAX Dome theater. For the youngest explorers under the age of eight, there is a specialized children's museum called Power of Play, where learning happens through play in a miniature replica of a city.

Sci-Port's mission is to promote STEM disciplines (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) through active engagement. The center is a recognized member of international associations of science centers and plays a key role in the intellectual development of the community, providing an immersive environment that sparks lifelong curiosity and a thirst for knowledge.

To plan your visit to Sci-Port Discovery Center, you can use the official contact details provided. The center's staff are ready to answer questions about current exhibitions and special programs by phone or through the website.

At Sci-Port Discovery Center, every guest will find an activity to enjoy. The main highlight of the venue is its interactivity: you don't just look at displays; you actively interact with over 200 exhibits. You can spend hours experimenting with the laws of physics, studying the basics of robotics, or participating in live science demonstrations that clearly explain complex phenomena.

Special attention should be paid to the Sawyer Space Dome planetarium, equipped with a powerful projection system. A journey to distant stars and planets looks incredibly realistic, immersing viewers in the mysteries of the universe. If you are visiting with children, be sure to stop by the Power of Play zone. This is an entire mini-city where little ones can try on different professions and learn through play.

End your action-packed day at the IMAX Dome Theatre, where films are shown on a massive domed screen, creating a total immersion effect. The Gallery of Intrigue adds a touch of mystery to your visit, inviting you to solve scientific puzzles. With such a variety of things to do, families often spend 5 hours or more here without noticing how time flies.

Getting to Sci-Port Discovery Center is easy as it is conveniently located on the banks of the Red River in the heart of downtown. If you are traveling by car, take I-20 or I-49, which lead directly to central Shreveport. Convenient visitor parking is available adjacent to the complex.

For those who prefer public transportation, the city is served by the SporTran bus network. You can also use taxi or rideshare services, which is particularly convenient if you are arriving from Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV); the trip will take only 10–15 minutes.

Thanks to its central location, Sci-Port is within walking distance of many other city attractions. A stroll along Clyde Fant Parkway can be a great addition to your museum visit, allowing you to enjoy views of the river and the city skyline.

The history of the Sci-Port Discovery Center is closely linked to the development of Shreveport itself as a progressive Louisiana hub. The city, founded in 1836 by Captain Henry Miller Shreve, has come a long way from a river trading port to a modern educational center. Sci-Port became an important link in this evolution, taking on the role of a leader in informal science education for the region.

While the center itself is a modern facility, it reflects the spirit of innovation that has always been inherent to Shreveport. In the past, the city was known as an oil and music capital, where legends like Elvis Presley began their careers. Today, the Science Center continues this tradition of leadership, but in the fields of high technology and the training of future scientists.

The center is managed by a professional team led by Executive Director Dianne M. Clark. Supported by a board of directors that includes representatives from business and education, Sci-Port constantly updates its exhibits to meet the latest Next Generation Science Standards. This makes it more than just a museum; it is a living organism shaping the future of the state.

To fully enjoy everything the center has to offer, we recommend planning 4 to 6 hours for your visit. This will provide enough time to explore the main interactive halls at a leisurely pace, attend a planetarium show, and watch a thrilling IMAX film.

Visitors with children often find that even five hours is not enough, as the play areas and science labs can keep little explorers engaged all day long. If your time is limited, it is best to choose your priority exhibitions in advance to ensure you see the highlights.

Sci-Port Discovery Center operates on a schedule that accommodates both school groups and family tourists. Please note that the center is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, which should be considered when planning your trip to Shreveport.

On weekdays from Wednesday to Friday, doors are open from 10:00 to 17:00. On Saturdays, the center opens earlier at 09:00, and on Sundays, it welcomes guests in the afternoon from 12:00 to 17:00.

A visit to Sci-Port Discovery Center can easily be combined with exploring other interesting sites in Shreveport. Its downtown location gives guests access to cultural, historical, and entertainment venues just steps or a short drive away.

Exploring the surrounding area will allow you to better feel the atmosphere of the city, get to know its architectural heritage, or simply enjoy your time in local parks and establishments. Below is a list of the most notable locations nearby.